Domestic violence is a pervasive public health issue that touches every community. It cuts across age, race, income and geography, leaving lasting harm to survivors and families. Nearly all healthcare professionals will eventually treat a patient impacted by domestic or family violence. For physicians, recognizing the signs and understanding the dynamics is essential.

Each year, domestic violence affects an estimated 10 million people in the U.S., affecting one in four women and one in nine men.¹  Despite these numbers, intimate partner violence remains highly underreported, which means the true prevalence is even greater.
Domestic violence extends beyond physical harm. It includes emotional, psychological, financial and sexual abuse. These behaviors are used to exert control within intimate or family relationships. The patterns often escalate in severity over time, making early recognition by healthcare providers even more important.

Why Healthcare Providers Are Central to the Response

For many victims, the healthcare system is their only consistent contact outside the home. Physicians and nurses encounter these patients in emergency rooms, clinics and primary care offices. Sometimes patients impacted by violence present with suspicious injuries, but just as often they come for unrelated concerns. This uniquely positions providers to identify abuse, initiate conversations and connect patients with resources. Clinicians are also key in recognizing human trafficking victims, who frequently seek medical care while avoiding law enforcement.

Warning Signs Physicians May Notice

Victims may show injuries in different stages of healing, vague or inconsistent explanations, or frequent visits for nonspecific complaints like headaches or abdominal pain. Emotional cues such as anxiety, depression or withdrawal can also be indicators. Observing who accompanies the patient is critical. Controlling or overly protective partners may insist on answering questions or refuse to leave the exam room.

Read more physician strategies and screening guidelines

How Physicians Can Intervene

Even brief, supportive conversations can open the door to disclosure. Simple statements such as “You are not alone” or “Help is available” communicate empathy and safety. Having resource lists readily available — including information on local shelters, hotlines and advocacy groups — helps connect patients quickly to support systems. Careful documentation is also essential, as it may later be needed in legal proceedings.

The Opportunity in Clinical Practice

Domestic violence isn’t always obvious, but physicians are in a rare position to spot red flags. By incorporating routine questions, careful listening and readily available resource lists into patient interactions, clinicians can intervene in ways that change, and often save, lives. MagMutual provides expert resources and guidance to help healthcare professionals navigate these challenges with confidence. Learn more about the screening tools and red flags associated with domestic violence here or visit our full library of Healthcare Insights for additional support.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article does not constitute legal, medical or any other professional advice. No attorney-client relationship is created and you should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this article without seeking legal or other professional advice.

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¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499891/